Jessica Colker, 39-year-old American tourist, was killed on La Saucee beach, close to the La Sagesse resort where she was staying on Sunday.

She had been walking there with her husband who escaped the attack and ran back to the hotel to alert the authorities.

A man has already handed himself in following the attack and is now being held by police who are investigating the murder.

While the tourism authority has expressed its sympathies for the victims friends and family, it sought to allay any concerns of potential visitors to the island.

The spokesperson said: “The directors, management and staff of the Grenada Tourism Authority are deeply saddened and express our deepest sympathies to Jessica Colker’s husband and family.

“We are working closely with the Royal Grenada Police Force who has informed (us) that a suspect is in custody assisting the investigation.

“This regrettable occurrence is not the norm. Grenada received in 2014, 23,361 long stay visitors from the UK (and 19,556 from January to August 2015).

“The Royal Grenada Police Force continues to be vigilant in protecting Grenadian citizens and visitors to our country. 

“The GTA and the RGPF continue to collaborate with tourism stakeholders to maintain the safety of the nation’s cruise, yachting and stay over visitors.

“Our deepest condolences are extended to Jessica’s husband, family and friends.”